How to replace lost car keys [Read the Full Write-up]

Things tend to get lost in the hustle of getting children to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the case anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you lose your car keys The first place you should contact is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their vehicles, which means they will be able to locate your key. The disadvantage is that visiting the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to look for a different one. You might be able locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or replace lost car keys VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will then order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.

A lot of cars today come with a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed for proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer can sell you a smart key but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for less than the cost.

You can also purchase a replacement for your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that fits your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry will be able to provide you with a replacement car key. In certain instances, the locksmith may have to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.

2. Contact a Locksmith

The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is that you have lost key replacement near me your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and make sure it's somewhere safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being rejected later in the event that your key is stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement for less than what a dealership would charge. They will usually come out to your location and make the key right there which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car comes with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also require evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as the registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to risk this, it's a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, rather than having them stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to locate the location where your keys went missing. It might help to look in places you would not normally check, such as pockets in your pants or coat or in the bag you use for running. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your car via chips. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.

Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of coverage or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.

If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you'll be able to get it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. However, if your vehicle has an electronic key fob that's paired with your car through the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to request an upgrade. It's not cheap, but it is much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

Making an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. The insurance company could increase your premiums because they will consider you a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. You can avoid these extra costs by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to create an original key without copying the previous one.

4. Call for a Tow Truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and nobody would want to experience this. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your money.

Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This can aid in determining where they are and aid in calming your panic. Try to remember the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.

If you are unable to locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or the bag that you carried them in to take them home. If you're still unable to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are tiny devices that can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app for your phone that will let you know where your keys are so you don't have to look through every pocket or drawer in your home.

The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what kind of key you have. If you have a conventional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle, you will need go to the dealer to obtain a replacement.

It is essential to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your attention is focused on other things. However, by following these steps you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan in case the event that they do.